chiadi101

[chiadi101]

Start-Up Progress Update: Lawrence Cleaning Service

Hey everyone! Just checking in with a quick update on how things are going with Lawrence Cleaning Service. Starting this business from scratch with just $50 has been both a challenge and a huge learning experience. Here’s a little behind-the-scenes on what’s working, what’s not, and what I’ve been discovering along the way.

What’s Working

Customer Satisfaction: The clients I’ve worked with so far have been really happy with the results! Seeing their reactions and getting positive feedback has been incredibly motivating.

Referrals: Word of mouth has been amazing. A couple of happy customers have already recommended my services to friends and neighbors. It’s helping build trust and expand my client base without spending a dime on ads.

Low Overhead: I’ve been keeping expenses super low by using supplies I already had or buying only what’s essential. It’s helping me stay profitable even in the early stages.

What’s Not Working

Finding Clients: It’s been a little tough breaking into new neighborhoods or reaching people outside my immediate circle. I’m realizing that marketing needs more attention—and maybe some creativity.

Scheduling: Managing bookings manually is starting to get tricky as things pick up. I need a better system to stay organized and avoid overlaps or last-minute rushes.

How the Project Is Coming Along

Overall, I feel like I’ve made solid progress. It’s still early days, but the foundation feels strong. I’ve proven that there is a demand for quality, reliable cleaning services—and that I’m capable of delivering that. Now it’s about scaling up slowly and smartly.

What I’m Learning About Running a Business

Professionalism matters—even when you're small. Being on time, communicating clearly, and doing the job right go a long way in building credibility.

Networking is powerful. Most of my success so far has come from personal connections and recommendations.

Every job is marketing. Each clean space is a chance to impress someone who might spread the word. What I’m Learning About Myself

I’ve learned that I actually enjoy this work more than I expected. There’s something super satisfying about transforming a space and knowing someone’s day just got a little better because of it. I’ve also realized that I’m more disciplined and entrepreneurial than I gave myself credit for.

Thanks for being part of the journey! If you’re in the area and need a hand making your space sparkle, feel free to reach out. ✨

#LawrenceCleaningService #StartUpJourney #SmallBusinessLife #CleaningBusiness #EntrepreneurMindset #Bootstrapping #ClientFirst

[chiadi101]

Lawrence Cleaning Service – Start-Up Progress Update

Hey everyone! Just dropping in with a quick update on how things are going with Lawrence Cleaning Service—my micro business journey that kicked off with just $50 and a whole lot of determination.

What’s Working:

The biggest win so far has been word of mouth. I started by offering services to family, friends, and neighbors, and it’s been amazing to see how positive feedback has helped me land new clients. Also, keeping things lean has worked in my favor—I’m using basic, affordable supplies and investing earnings right back into the business. Scheduling and sticking to consistent routines has also helped streamline my work.

What’s Not Working:

Marketing on social media hasn’t picked up as much traction as I hoped. I’ve tried posting on local Facebook groups and Instagram, but engagement is slow. I’m realizing I may need to get more creative with how I share my services online or even try some offline methods like flyers or business cards. Also, balancing everything as a solo operator has its challenges—time management is still a work in progress. How the Project is Coming:

Overall, I feel like the project is moving in the right direction. Each week brings small wins—more confidence, more clients, and more clarity about what works. It’s not always easy, but it’s definitely rewarding. Seeing actual growth, even if it’s slow, motivates me to keep pushing forward.

What I’m Learning About Running a Business:

Running a business, even a small one, takes a lot of planning, flexibility, and grit. I’m learning that building trust with clients is key—it’s not just about doing a good job, but about being reliable, consistent, and professional. I’m also gaining hands-on experience in budgeting, managing time, and customer service, all of which are invaluable skills.

What I’m Learning About Myself:

I’ve learned that I’m more resourceful and resilient than I thought. I’ve had to troubleshoot, adjust plans on the fly, and stay motivated even when things get tough. I’m discovering that I really enjoy working independently and having control over the direction of my work. This project is helping me grow not just as an entrepreneur, but as a person.

Thanks for following along! More updates soon as Lawrence Cleaning Service continues to grow.

#startupjourney #cleaningservice #smallbusinessowner #entrepreneurlife #lawrencecleaningservice #bootstrapping #microbusiness

[chiadi101]

Start-Up Journey Update: Lawrence Cleaning Services.

Hey everyone! It’s Lawrence here, back to share my latest thoughts and updates on my start-up venture with Lawrence Cleaning Services. It’s been another week full of learning, challenges, and small victories. Let’s jump right in!

What is Working?

1. Client Engagement: I’m excited to report that our initial outreach efforts have begun to pay off! We’ve secured a handful of clients who are thrilled with our cleaning services and have provided fantastic feedback. Their satisfaction motivates us to push forward.

2. Refining Our Services:Based on customer feedback, we’ve made some adjustments to our service offerings. Adding specialized deep-cleaning options has resonated well with our clients, and I believe it sets us apart from the competition.

3.Social Media Presence:Our social media marketing strategy is starting to gain traction! We’ve seen an increase in engagement on our platforms, particularly when sharing before-and-after photos of our cleaning jobs. Visuals really help showcase the quality of our work.

What is Not Working?

Scheduling Complexity: As we take on more clients, managing schedules effectively has become challenging. I underestimated the amount of time it would take to coordinate staff availability and client requests. This is an area I need to focus on improving.

2. Marketing Outreach: While our social media is doing well, other marketing channels like email campaigns haven’t yielded as many leads as expected. Finding out where our potential customers are hanging out and how best to reach them is still a work in progress.

How Do I Feel the Project is Coming?

Overall, I’m feeling optimistic about the direction of Lawrence Cleaning Services. There are definitely hurdles to overcome, but with every challenge, I feel we’re getting closer to creating something impactful. The positive feedback from clients reinforces that we’re providing value, which keeps me motivated.

What Are You Learning About Running a Business?

Adaptability is Key: One of my biggest lessons so far is the importance of being adaptable. The business landscape can change quickly, and being able to pivot based on feedback and testing different strategies is essential.

Focus on Customer Experience: Delivering excellent customer service isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a must. Happy customers lead to repeat business and referrals, which are crucial for growth.

What Are You Learning About Yourself?

Resilience: Starting this business has tested my resilience more than I ever anticipated. There are days filled with doubt, but each obstacle has taught me to be more tenacious and find solutions rather than dwell on the problems.

Passion for Service: I’ve discovered a deeper passion for service-based work. Helping others by providing a clean, safe space resonates with me on a personal level, and that drives me to succeed.

Thanks for following along on this journey with me! I can't wait to share more updates soon as Lawrence Cleaning Services continues to grow and evolve. If you have any tips or advice, feel free to drop them in the comments!

[chiadi101]

Start-Up Venture Update: Wins, Challenges & Lessons

Launching and running Lawrence Cleaning Service has been a whirlwind experience, full of highs, lows, and learning moments. As I reach the midpoint of this journey, I want to reflect on what’s working, what’s not, and what I’m discovering about business and myself.

What’s Working? One of the biggest successes so far has been customer engagement. By leveraging word-of-mouth marketing and local community networks, I’ve been able to connect with individuals and businesses in need of reliable cleaning services. Personal referrals have proven to be an invaluable tool, and I’ve learned that reliability and excellent service lead to repeat clients and positive recommendations.

Another positive has been my cost-effective approach. With a low initial investment of $50, I’ve managed to keep overhead costs minimal by focusing on essential supplies and reinvesting earnings into the business. Bootstrapping has helped me maintain full control over decisions and growth without relying on outside funding.

What’s Not Working? While engagement is high, scaling the business beyond my current client base has been a challenge. Many potential customers express interest but hesitate to commit to regular services. I need to explore strategies such as promotional discounts, service bundles, or partnerships with local businesses to increase bookings.

Time management is another hurdle. Balancing this venture with other responsibilities has been more demanding than expected. Between scheduling, cleaning, and marketing the business, I sometimes feel stretched thin. Finding a more structured workflow will be key to maintaining consistency without burnout.

How Do I Feel About the Project? Despite the challenges, I feel incredibly excited and motivated. Seeing my vision come to life and knowing that I’m providing a valuable service makes the effort worthwhile. While growth may be slower than anticipated, the positive feedback from satisfied clients reassures me that I’m building something with long-term potential.

What Am I Learning About Running a Business? I’ve gained a deeper understanding of the importance of marketing and branding. Securing clients isn’t just about offering a great service; it’s about building trust and demonstrating reliability.

I’m also learning the importance of flexibility. Business doesn’t always go as planned, and being willing to adjust my approach based on real-world feedback is crucial to success.

What Am I Learning About Myself? This experience has shown me that I thrive in entrepreneurial spaces. I enjoy the challenge of managing a service-based business and engaging with customers. At the same time, I’ve recognized the need to improve my time management skills and set clearer boundaries to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

This journey has been incredibly rewarding. There’s still plenty of work to do, but I’m excited to keep refining my strategy and growing Lawrence Cleaning Service.

[chiadi101]

I want to take a moment to share some updates on my start-up venture! It’s been quite the rollercoaster ride, and I’m excited to reflect on what’s working, what’s not, and the lessons I'm learning along the way.

What’s Working:

One of the biggest wins has been our marketing strategy. Using social media to engage with our audience has proven effective; we’ve seen a steady increase in followers and inquiries about our product. The feedback from potential customers has also been incredibly encouraging, which motivates me to keep pushing forward. Our team collaboration has improved too; brainstorming sessions are yielding creative ideas that resonate well with our brand vision.

What’s Not Working:

On the flip side, I’ve encountered challenges with our supply chain. Delays in sourcing materials have slowed our production timeline, which is frustrating. Additionally, I underestimated the time required for administrative tasks like setting up legal structures. I’ve realized that these behind-the-scenes elements are just as critical as the product development itself.

Overall Feelings About the Project:

I feel a mix of excitement and anxiety. Each small success reinforces my passion, but the hurdles sometimes feel overwhelming. It's a constant balancing act between optimism and realism!

What I’m Learning About Running a Business:

Running a business is definitely a marathon, not a sprint. Flexibility is crucial—being able to adapt and pivot when things don’t go according to plan has become one of my most valuable skills. I’ve also learned the importance of networking; connecting with mentors and fellow entrepreneurs has opened doors and provided invaluable advice.

What I’m Learning About Myself:

This journey is revealing my resilience. There are days when self-doubt creeps in, but I've discovered an inner strength to keep pushing through challenges. I've also learned the significance of vulnerability��sharing struggles can foster deeper connections with others who may be facing similar battles.

Thanks for following along on this adventure! I’m excited to see where this journey takes me, and I appreciate all the support from you all.

[chiadi101]

Start-Up Chronicles

The Reality of Growing Lawrence Cleaning Service

What’s Working?

Referrals Are Powering My Growth – My first few clients came from personal connections, but now, happy customers are spreading the word. It turns out, delivering great service with a personal touch is one of the best and cheapest marketing strategies.

Keeping Costs Low – Because I started lean, I’m not weighed down by debt. Every dollar I make goes right back into better supplies and small marketing efforts, helping me grow at a manageable pace.

Customer Experience is Everything – I’ve learned that clients aren’t just paying for a clean home or office; they’re paying for reliability, trust, and professionalism. Being responsive and detail-oriented is leading to repeat business and referral.

What’s Not Working?

Time Management is a problem – Between handling bookings, cleaning, marketing, and finances, I feel like I’m constantly racing against the clock. I need to find a way to work smarter, not just harder.

Scaling Requires Money – While bootstrapping has been great so far, I know that expanding (better equipment, possibly hiring help) will require more funds. I’m starting to explore small business grants and microloans, but I want to make sure I don’t take on unnecessary financial risk.

How Do I Feel About the Project?

It’s honestly both exciting and exhausting. Some days, I can see the vision so clearly, and I know this business has real potential. Other days, I feel overwhelmed by how much there is to do. But overall? I feel proud. This is something I built, and no matter how challenging it gets, that’s a win in itself.

What I’m Learning About Running a Business

Marketing Can’t Be an Afterthought – I used to think if I just did a great job, people would automatically come to me. But I’m realizing that consistent marketing—whether through social media, word-of-mouth, or networking—is key to long-term success.

Managing Money is Just as Important as Making It – It’s not just about earning; it’s about making sure my profits are being used wisely. I’m learning to budget better and plan for future expenses. Customer Relationships Matter More Than I Thought – The little things—like remembering a client’s preferences or following up after a job—go a long way in building loyalty.

What I’m Learning About Myself

I’m More Resilient Than I Gave Myself Credit For – Running a business means problem-solving constantly. I’m learning to think on my feet and push through obstacles. I Need to Work on Balance – I love the hustle, but I can’t run on empty. I’m realizing I need to set better boundaries with my time to avoid burnout.

I’m Capable of More Than I Thought – A few months ago, this was just an idea. Now, it’s a growing business. That alone reminds me that I can take on challenges and make them work.

Final Thoughts

This journey is far from easy, but it’s worth it. Every setback teaches me something new, and every small win pushes me forward. I don’t have it all figured out yet, but I’m building something real, and that’s what matters.

If you’re on a similar path, starting something from nothing—I would love to hear about your experiences. Let’s keep learning and growing together!

[chiadi101]

Building from $50: My Journey with Lawrence Cleaning Service

Having only $50 when I launched Lawrence Cleaning Service, I knew it would be a difficult journey. I was surprised to see how much I would learn about myself as well as business. The process has proven equally eye-opening, tiring, and rewarding. On some days, I believe I am doing it perfectly. On other days? All I have tried to do is stay up. But despite everything, I sense that something meaningful is developing.

What’s Working? Referrals Are Crucial. My initial customers consisted of friends and friends of friends, but now? They’re informing other people. My greatest source of development has been the power of words, which confirms that excellent work speaks for itself. I'm Staying Sharp by Bootstrapping. I have a minimal budget, so I must be careful with every dollar. I'm learning long-term skills like operating lean, reinvesting revenues prudently, and stretching resources.

Experience of the customer equals repeating business.  Cleaning, I used to believe was just cleaning. But I've discovered that my punctuality, communication, and willingness to go above and beyond make a huge difference. Customers desire confidence, dependability, and trust.

What’s Not Working?

My to-do list is endless, with cleaning duties, scheduling, marketing, and managing my finances all taking up my time. I need to find a structure because my schedule is so busy. Expenses of Growth Investing in improved equipment, marketing, and possibly even a small crew in the future would allow me to grow more quickly. But I have to grow gradually with my current budget. I've started looking into grants and microloans, but I want to be careful about making financial commitments.

How’s It All Coming Together?

Some days, it feels like magic. Other days, it feels like chaos. But overall? It feels real. This isn’t just an idea anymore, it’s a business. A business with customers, cash flow (however small), and potential. That alone keeps me going.

Biggest Business Takeaways So Far

Marketing doesn't have to be fancy, but it must be consistent. A simple social media post, a fast follow-up message, a recommendation request all add up.

Having cash flow is crucial. Earning money is one thing. Another is managing it to suit your needs. Finding a balance between financial prudence and investments is a skill I'm learning.

Managing a service firm is more than just performing your job effectively; people value who you are, not just what you do. It turns out that little personal touches, relationships, and trust are just as important.

What I’m Learning About Myself

I've learned ways to stretch a budget, create marketing plans, and find answers to issues I didn't even know existed. I'm More Resourceful Than I Thought.

Although I enjoy the hustle, I must take it slow. Although I enjoy staying busy, burnout does happen. I need to find balance if I want this to last.

I don't have to know everything yet. I learn something new every day about my clients, my business, and myself. Instead of being afraid of the unknown, I'm learning to embrace it.

Final Thoughts

I wouldn't exchange this adventure for anything, but it has been quite the ride. Although it's demanding, dirty, and unexpected, it's also mine. I'm creating something from the ground up, not just tidying up areas.

I applaud everyone else who is creating something from the ground up. Let's continue moving forward.

[chiadi101]

Beyond the Initial $50: Financing the Future of Lawrence Cleaning Service

Starting Lawrence Cleaning Service, with just $50 has been an exciting challenge. However, if I go past this initial phase, securing additional financing will be essential for purchasing high-quality cleaning supplies, expanding marketing efforts, and potentially hiring staff or acquiring professional equipment. After reviewing the Business Development Bank of Canada’s (BDC) article, 4 Factors That Could Affect Financing My Start-Up, I’ve identified the best financial source for my business: bootstrapping with microloans or grants as a secondary option.

Bootstrapping or self-financing, works well with my business model because it allows me to grow at my own pace without being under the strain of having to repay a loan. Since a cleaning service has relatively low overhead costs, reinvesting profits from initial clients into better equipment and marketing can drive organic growth. Bootstrapping further permits full control over business decisions and eliminates debt-related financial risk.

If I decide to expand faster such as purchasing company vehicles or hiring people. I may consider small business microloans or grants.

Personal Investment – Since I started with my own money, lenders may see me as financially committed and responsible. This strengthens my case for microloans.

Working Capital & Cash Flow – I must demonstrate steady revenue and a sound business plan in order to be eligible for funding.

Management Experience – My hands-on experience in scheduling, customer service, and cleaning expertise will demonstrate my ability to manage funds effectively.

Market Potential – The increasing demand for residential and commercial cleaning services supports my business’s ability to scale profitably.

Potential Funding Sources

Microloans: Organizations like BDC offer small business loans with flexible repayment options.

Government Grants: Programs like the Canada Small Business Financing Program (CSBFP) may provide financial support.

Crowdfunding: If my brand becomes well-known, I might be able to finance a significant expansion using websites like Kickstarter.

Right now, the easiest way to maintain my business's flexibility and leanness is through bootstrapping. To guarantee sustainable growth, I will look into grants or microloans if I choose to scale.

[chiadi101]

LAWRENCE CLEANING BUSINESS OPERATING PLAN.

Lawrence Prestige Cleaning: Business Operations Plan

Lawrence Prestige Cleaning requires extensive planning, especially when sourcing products, managing operations, and ensuring we have everything needed to launch successfully. Sourcing Products & Generating Resources

In order to provide top-notch cleaning services, I intend to buy the necessary products including disinfectants, microfiber cloths, vacuums, mops, protective gloves, and eco-friendly cleaning solutions. To attract customers who are concerned about their health and the environment, I want to give preference to non-toxic and ecologically friendly products. To guarantee affordability without sacrificing quality, I will purchase these goods from regional wholesalers and vendors. To reduce replacement costs and increase productivity, I will also invest in long-lasting equipment.

Operational Timeline & Feasibility

I have created a timeline to make sure all the preparations are finished on time, even though I only have six weeks to set up and launch the company. During the first two weeks, I will buy supplies and complete supplier agreements. Marketing activities, such as distributing flyers, promoting on social media, and contacting possible customers, will be the main focus of weeks three and four. The final two weeks will be devoted to testing, fine-tuning, and the formal launch of Lawrence Prestige Cleaning. I'm sure I'll be able to find all the things I need before the launch.

Team Roles & Responsibilities

If working in a group, roles would be divided as follows:

Operations Manager: Would be in charge of overseeing service logistics and making supply purchases.

Marketing Lead: Would handle promotions, social media presence, and client outreach.

Customer Relations Specialist: Would be in charge of managing bookings, customer inquiries, and feedback.

Service Provider(s): Would be conducting cleaning services and also ensure quality standards.

Licenses

Since this is a cleaning service, I need a business license and liability insurance to operate legally and ensure customer trust.

Vision & Tools Needed for Launch

To successfully launch Lawrence Prestige Cleaning, I will need the following:

Cleaning Supplies & Equipment: Eco-friendly cleaning products, vacuum cleaners, mops, cloths, and protective gear.

Marketing Materials: Business cards, flyers, social media ads, and a simple website.

Transportation: A reliable vehicle to travel to client’s locations.

Customer Booking System: An efficient method of handling client questions and appointments, like scheduling software or Google Calendar.

My Final Thoughts

Though ambitious, launching this company in six weeks is doable with careful planning. Lawrence Prestige Cleaning will be prepared to offer clients dependable, superior cleaning services by acquiring supplies in advance, advertising services successfully, and making sure the right license is obtained. I can't wait for this idea to become a reality and for my name to become well-known in the field.

[chiadi101]

Lawrence Cleaning Service – More Than Just Cleaning!

At Lawrence Cleaning Service, we believe that cleaning is more than just wiping surfaces and vacuuming floors—it’s about creating balance, clarity, and peace of mind in your space.

A clean space is a fresh start. Your home is where life happens. It’s where you begin and end your day, where you create memories, and where you recharge. When your home is clean, your mind is clear. When clutter is removed, stress fades away. At Lawrence Cleaning Service, we don’t just remove dirt but we create an environment where you can truly thrive.

Why You Should Choose Lawrence Cleaning Service? ✅ We don’t just clean; we restore balance. ✅ We don’t just tidy up; we promote well-being. ✅ We don’t just remove dust; we create harmony.

A cleaner home isn’t just about appearance—it’s about energy, focus, and peace. Let us help you reclaim your space, so you can focus on what truly matters.

Experience the difference with Lawrence Cleaning Service—because a clean home is the foundation of a better life.

[chiadi101]

Ideal Customer Persona: "Busy Elaine"

Name: Elaine French

Age: 54

Occupation: Sales Manager Carnival Cruise Line

Location: Pelham, Niagara Region

Income: $100,000/year

Family Status: Married with two young children

Lifestyle & Challenges:

Works 50+ hours a week and struggles to balance work and home life.

Loves a clean home but lacks time to maintain it.

Prefers eco-friendly cleaning products for her family's health.

Values reliability, trustworthiness, and convenience in a cleaning service.

[chiadi101]

LOCAL COMPETITORS IN NIAGARA REGION

In the Niagara region, Here are three notable competitors:

Merry Maids of Niagara merrymaidsniagara.ca

Niagara Falls, ON

They Offer customizable cleaning services, including one-time and regular cleanings. Emphasizes professional, bonded, and insured cleaners with over 40 years of experience. Provides a worry-free guarantee and eco-friendly cleaning options. 

Molly Maid Niagara Falls mollymaid.ca

Niagara Falls, ON

Provides flexible cleaning plans tailored to individual needs, such as regular, deep seasonal, or one-time services like move-in or move-out cleanings. Offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee and free in-home estimates. 

Hellamaid hellamaid.ca

Niagara, ON Offers comprehensive cleaning services, including regular home cleaning, deep cleaning, move-in/move-out cleanings, and post-renovation cleanups. They utilize eco-friendly products to ensure a safe and healthy environment. 

Website Experience:

Merry Maids of Niagara: Features a user-friendly website with clear navigation, detailing various cleaning services and offering online booking options.

Molly Maid Niagara Falls: Provides an intuitive website with information on services, a satisfaction guarantee, and an easy-to-use contact form for free estimates.

Hellamaid: Offers a modern website highlighting their range of services, eco-friendly approach, and an online booking system for customer convenience.

Market Positioning:

Merry Maids of Niagara: Positions itself as a professional cleaning service with high experience, offering customizable cleaning plans and a worry-free guarantee.

Molly Maid Niagara Falls: Emphasizes flexibility and customer satisfaction, providing tailored cleaning plans and a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

Hellamaid: They focus on eco-friendly cleaning solutions, catering to environmentally conscious consumers seeking comprehensive cleaning services.

Pricing:

Merry Maids of Niagara: Pricing details are not listed on the website; potential customers are encouraged to contact them for a quote.

Molly Maid Niagara Falls: Offers free, no-obligation in-home estimates to provide accurate pricing based on individual needs.

Hellamaid: Specific pricing information isn't available online; customers are advised to request a quote for detailed pricing.

Social Media:

Merry Maids of Niagara: Active on social media platforms, sharing cleaning tips, promotions, and customer testimonials to engage with the community.

Molly Maid Niagara Falls: Utilizes social media to showcase cleaning tips, special offers, and customer feedback, fostering community engagement.

Hellamaid: Engages with their customers through social media by sharing eco-friendly cleaning tips, promotions, and customer success stories.

Strengths and Weaknesses:

Merry Maids of Niagara:

Strengths: Extensive experience, customizable cleaning plans, worry-free guarantee.

Weaknesses: Lack of transparent pricing on the website; potential customers must contact for quotes.

Molly Maid Niagara Falls:

Strengths: Flexible cleaning plans, 100% satisfaction guarantee, free in-home estimates.

Weaknesses: Pricing details are not available online; customers need to request an estimate.

Hellamaid:

Strengths: Eco-friendly cleaning solutions, comprehensive range of services.

Weaknesses: Specific pricing information is not provided online; customers must inquire for details.

[chiadi101]

MY MESSAGE MAP

[chiadi101]

STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESS

Strengths and Weaknesses As I go deeper into the world of business and entrepreneurship, I’ve been reflecting on my own strengths and areas for growth.

One of my strengths is sales and negotiation. I have always enjoyed connecting with people and finding solutions that work for everyone and also making sure that the customer and I are both happy after closing a deal. For example, in my family business, I have always taken the lead in negotiating with customers and ensuring that we reach an agreement everyone is happy with. This is something I want to keep building on as I explore more business opportunities.

Another strength I have developed is people management. I’ve often taken it upon myself to organize tasks and ensure everyone's working towards the same goal. I’ve realized over time that successful people management isn’t just about telling people what to do but about understanding personalities and motivating others. In all my strengths there are certain areas I have to improve. One of them is financial planning. I realize that understanding how to properly manage finances is very important for a business to be successful, and it’s something I need to become more comfortable with.

Another weakness is time management. I sometimes struggle with multi-tasking at once. I’m currently working on it by setting my priorities clearly and also by using calendars and to-do lists to keep track of everything I need to do and in order to be more efficient.